Chapter 1: Understanding the Koan

In this concluding section, we delve deeper into the koan presented in Introduction to Shamanism. The initial part illustrates how every living being can be viewed as the most immediate deity to the elements that constitute it. This notion extends upwards and downwards, suggesting that each macro entity is part of a larger divine structure—gods nested within gods. Ultimately, when considering a Supreme Being, or God with a capital "G", the Universe itself embodies that essence. Both are perceived as omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. Consequently, we are integral components of this divine entity, making our actions direct reflections on divinity, ourselves, and others.

In the second part, we learn that the Universe—and by extension, God, deities, and ourselves—exists as one of many illusions that individuals use to create a shared context for their observations. The results of any measurement are inevitably shaped by the observer, whether consciously recognized or not. Our understanding of the universe is limited to what we can observe, and the act of observation itself may influence the universe’s unfolding.

However, we are not solitary observers. Each individual has different intentions, methods, and capacities for perception. This raises the intriguing possibility that observation may contribute to the universe's expansion. If this is the case, shouldn't we strive to observe as much as possible? Is there an optimal number of observations for maximizing potential without excess? Additionally, does envisioning the nonexistent enhance this effect, or is it merely a byproduct of it, akin to the after-image seen when one closes their eyes?

In reality, I lean towards Pascal’s Wager. It's conceivable that not only might there be no God or Universe, but the very idea of them could be ludicrous to a higher entity beyond human comprehension. It's also plausible that despite the proven observer effect, my choices may have no real impact on the universe. I could be mistaken in all my beliefs based on the best evidence available to me.

Nonetheless, I choose to adopt the hypothesis that God exists as the Universe, and that our best hope is to gain a partial understanding of its vastness. This understanding requires recognizing that how, what, when, and where we observe is significant. If I wish to witness more beauty in the world, I must actively seek it. If I desire to see goodness, I must look for the good in existence. To feel joy, I must appreciate the happiness that life offers.

You shape the reality that envelops you. Even if this reality is an illusion, you are the architect of it, as is everyone else. Make your existence meaningful. The fragment of the Universe you perceive during your lifetime will be entirely influenced by your observations and how you are perceived in turn. Thus, perhaps the greatest contribution one can make is to enhance the perceptual abilities of others while allowing them to enrich your own. When executed well, the collective observations of both parties are amplified; when done poorly, they are diminished.

A powerful method to alter one's perception of the Universe is through genuine, unfiltered gratitude. As Brother David Steindl-Rast suggests, we know individuals who possess nothing yet find happiness, while others with great wealth remain dissatisfied. This disparity often stems from a focus on what is lacking rather than on gratitude for what one has. When one channels that energy into appreciation for their possessions, joy inevitably follows, even in the face of mortality. Gratitude for the breath borrowed from existence is surpassed only by gratitude for the breath given back. It does not require diminishing others nor depriving oneself of unpossessed desires. It is the ability to find joy in the mere existence of a moment, regardless of its quality.

Once one embraces gratitude, they often discover excesses in their lives that may not serve them but can greatly benefit others—be it food, land, water, love, knowledge, or other essentials. Through charity and goodwill, these resources can transform into something greater than their individual contributions. Those whom you assist may recognize their own potential to give back, although their choices should not dictate your own actions. It is the act of giving that transmutes information and meaning into something useful for another. Thus, reality becomes interwoven between the observer and the observed, shaped by the conclusions drawn by each.

From this foundation, various virtues can emerge, but the most impactful ones will always elevate the observations of both oneself and others, rather than undermine differing perspectives. To live optimally, do not spend your life declaring others wrong or inflicting harm. Instead, the most fulfilling lives are those that recognize the best in everything, striving to uplift those around them. The most joyful individuals are those who see potential instead of threats, creation over destruction, even when both aspects coexist, such as with fire.

The negative aspects of existence are not ignored; rather, the observer must accept that fire can both harm and nurture. It can illuminate paths or obscure vision. It can provide warmth or incinerate everything in its path. Fire is neutral; it simply exists. Its use, whether for benevolent or malevolent acts, reflects the observer's perspective. Those who have gained the most from fire are those who have focused on its positive aspects while avoiding the negative.

Each day, often multiple times, I express gratitude to the Sun god for the light, warmth, and life it provides. I remain aware that it possesses the power to obliterate all surface life or disrupt our technology at any moment. This awareness does not diminish my gratitude for its gifts; rather, it reinforces an idiom I strive to embody: every breath is merely borrowed, awaiting its return. It is up to us to determine how much fulfillment we derive from that breath. Silently, I thank the stars in the cosmos for not bombarding us with gamma rays or sending a black hole our way, for providing us with light to navigate our lives.

The reality I choose to create with each breath aims to surpass the previous one. If I find something displeasing in my observations, I seek alternate perspectives or identify aspects that reveal beauty, wisdom, knowledge, or joy. The sheer act of learning excites me. Mastering the art of learning empowers me. Understanding how to learn to learn equips me with the insight that all is divine, and divinity encompasses all.

Chapter 2: The Essence of Koans and Their Impact

The first video, "Why Mu? Talk Two: The Essential Koan - with Henry Shukman," explores the significance of koans in understanding spiritual truths, emphasizing their role in transcending ordinary thought patterns.

Chapter 3: Riddles of Enlightenment

The second video, "ZEN KOANS | The Riddles that Stupefy the Mind and Evoke Enlightenment," delves into how these riddles challenge our perceptions and lead us towards deeper insights and awakening.